Your Dog's Battle With Allergies

As temperatures warm up, allergies flare up, but we're not the only ones suffering. For a lot of people allergy season is a real pain. But there is a smaller group that is often overlooked, your pets.

For many dogs, the spring bloom affects them just as bad as it does humans, and it's pretty common. "It's more common than most people realize, they just don't know what signs to look for." says DVM Aimee Johnson. Many pet owners often overlook the tell tale signs, even when they are right under their nose. "Skin itching and licking of the front paws or licking excessively."

Like in humans, there is no cure for these allergies, but there are lots of things you can do to make their life a little easier. Katie Johnson of Howl Natural says, "the first thing is a healthy diet. Because when a dog has a healthy immune system it can fight allergies better." You can also limit your dogs outdoor activities during high pollen seasons. Bathe them regularly in a dog friendly shampoo or simply just wipe their feet when they come in from outside.

But how about inside your house? You can install Hepa filters for air conditioner, clean carpet and furniture regularly, and clean their bedding regularly. Even vacuuming more often will help because many times they use the floor as their bed.

So what should you do about all the scratching and licking? "You can safely give Benadryl to dogs, just call your vet for the proper dose, which is usually 1mg per pound." says Aimee. While she says it only works occasionally it's worth a try. If that doesn't help a trip to the vet for a simple blood test can tell you exactly what your dog is allergic to.

Vets say the allergy season for dogs is the same as it is for humans, beginning in Spring and going through mid summer. So next time you are at the drug store loading up on allergy medication don't forget about your little four legged friends.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.